Work to improve public access for wheelchair users and people with pushchairs using a popular Totnes footpath have been hailed a success.

South Hams Council replaced some steps with ramps and provide others with a ramp alongside on the Chicken Run, which runs through the Bridgetown corridor.

The work cost £44,500 and was paid for via Section 106 monies from the nearby Baker Estate’s Great Court Farm development.

The work took place throughout January and has now been completed.

Cllr Jonathan Hawkins, the council’s executive member for health and wellbeing, said: “Whether you’re pushing a buggy to get to school, you’re scootering up to the playground, or you’re using the path to get to the shops, these improvements make the route easier to access for all.

“It’s great to see local people enjoying using the new path to get out and about.

“I’d like to send many thanks to those local people who have helped us, including the Bridgetown Alive! community group, to make sure the work carried out meets the needs of the community.”

Totnes Ward Councillor Jo Sweett said: “It’s been a positive labour of love being involved in and overseeing the Chicken Run access improvement works.

“The slopes alongside the steps, which have been carved out by kids on bikes and parents with prams, were very muddy and slippery especially in the winter.

“The new slopes are fantastic and there’s been such a positive feedback - parents are happy and they are wide enough for disabled vehicles, which is great.

“South Hams Council and Bridgetown Alive! have been working to bring this forward for six years.

“Replacing the steps with long slopes by St John’s Primary and Elm Walk has received positive feedback from all ages.

“The four trees to replace the felled Sycamore are all doing well.

“My only regret is that this wasn’t done when I was pushing my kids’ buggies up and down.”